Deadly fungus Candida auris hides in hair follicles as cases rise across 23 states

A drug‑resistant fungus Candida auris can burrow into hair follicles and alter immune signaling, creating a persistent nest on the skin. Cases have been reported in 23 states this year (Texas leads with 700+), and the fungus can linger on skin for months, making it hard to eradicate; many carriers have no symptoms, but infections can be deadly—CDC estimates up to 60% fatality among infected patients and roughly 3,000 US deaths annually. Treatment often requires multiple antifungal drugs and ongoing infection control in healthcare settings.